Slow Dating: A New Approach to Speed Dating
*For future events, follow here.
“Love is small acts of kindness accumulated over time.” —Terumi, happily married
Hello New York,
In the hustle and bustle of this city, it is easy to get into the rhythm of matching with a new date. The speed, ease, and the dopamine rush of meeting someone new make it easy to treat each other as dispensable.
There is a better way.
Instead of putting on another speed dating event, we are hosting a “slow dating” event. It is for those who want to approach dating with more intention and kindness; to be more open and honest with what they're looking for and to meet potential partners looking for the same.
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What to expect:
Arrival (~20min): You’ll be sat down in small groups as you arrive while the host serves you tea. Please refrain from talking about work :)
Intention setting and conversations (~50min): Jot down — Why are you here? What are you looking for? Then we’ll come together as a large group to share (plus some fun questions!)
Free flows (~30min): Grab more tea and have amazing conversations.
The match (~20min): Like speed dating, there will be an opportunity to be matched on dates. As for how, come for the surprise :)
We hope you have an amazing experience. Your ticket includes tea refills and snacks.
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Age: late 20s-late 30s (Age range is for general reference, but if you fall outside of the range but feel you belong and identify, do come!)
Sexual orientation: Straight (for this time just because we know this market better)
How can I join? A portion of the group will be the hosts’ friends and friends of friends. When you click request to join, you’ll be asked to respond to a few simple questions so we can get to know you a bit.
Who are my hosts?
Coco @Solei — Welcome to Solei (dearsolei.com), a social teahouse concept for a conversation with people from different walks of life. Building a third place in New York City for the open-minded to have intentional, authentic conversations with strangers from industries, backgrounds, and values different from our own in a setting that is relaxing, non-alcoholic, and extends beyond small talk.
Pak @Kyndred — Welcome to Kyndred (kyndred.app), a non-romantic space dedicated to helping you practice and refine your dating skills so you can show up as your best self. Here in NYC, it’s easy to go on endless first dates but never land a second—especially if you’re left wondering what went wrong when you get ghosted or blocked. Instead of guesswork, Kyndred offers paid in-person mock-dates and real feedback from our “Kynders,” so you can stop second-guessing and start learning. Think of us as your practice round before you head off to meet real matches through your favorite apps or singles events. Let’s take the pressure off, learn from honest feedback, and unlock truly meaningful connections—one (mock) date at a time.
I wrote more here, do give it a read :) https://coco.substack.com/p/no-more-bad-first-dates-5-radical